I have very vivid dreams. And I tend to remember them which, from what I read, is unusual. They stay with me throughout my day.
Last night, for example, I had two very weird dreams. I dreamt that I had a very ill child. The doctors had done all they could do and told me to say my good-byes. Then, I was in some sort of battle and the enemy discovered me hiding in a corner. Suddenly, I was awake and feeling anxious. That’s when I heard it – not audibly, mind you – yet, very clearly. I heard, “hopeless.” It made perfect sense because that is exactly how those dreams made me feel.
Hopeless.
A couple weeks ago, I walked through a cemetery with my daughter and my mom. We passed the grave of a family friend and my mother whispered,”suicide.” My daughter who (like most ten year olds) hears everything asked, “what is suicide?” Then, the natural next question, “Why would someone do that?” We talked about mental illness and the struggles it brings but also how some people simply cannot see any alternative. Their current struggle seems all consuming. Impossible. Unending. They hear the enemy whisper, “hopeless.” And they believe it. It’s the difference between a funeral where the deceased and mourners know Christ and one where the people grieve “as those who have no hope.” I have been to both and I have seen hopeless.
For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is from him. – Psalm 62:5
People need hope.
When the parent becomes ill.
When the spouse leaves.
When the business fails.
Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord his God… – Psalm 146:5
When the dream dies.
When friends walk away.
When disappointment comes.
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. – Jeremiah 29:11
When the job is deleted.
When the prodigal child has not yet come home.
When the loneliness lingers.
The enemy will whisper, “hopeless,” and a choice must be made. Will you believe the enemy or will you cling to the One who is hope?
